The Museum of Broken Relationships

Tucked away in the historic Upper Town of Zagreb, Croatia, lies one of the world’s most distinctive museums—the Museum of Broken Relationships. This unique space elevates everyday objects by highlighting their emotional and sentimental significance, offering an intimate look into the universal human experiences of love, loss, and healing. A Museum Born from Heartbreak The idea behind the museum was sparked by a personal breakup between Croatian artists Olinka Vištica and Dražen Grubišić, whose four-year relationship came to an end. What began as a whimsical concept—to create a space for the remnants of failed relationships—quickly grew into something far more meaningful. In 2006, they launched a travelling exhibition featuring donated items that symbolized broken bonds. The overwhelming public response led to the opening of a permanent museum in Zagreb in 2010. Their innovative approach to storytelling through personal artefacts earned them the Kenneth Hudson Award in 2011 for Europe’s Most Innovative Museum. The Collection: Ordinary Objects, Extraordinary Emotions Inside the museum, visitors encounter an eclectic mix of items—photographs, letters, clothing, and even an axe—each accompanied by an anonymous personal story. These seemingly mundane objects, sourced from around the globe, are imbued with deep emotional weight. The stories range from heartbreakingly sorrowful to unexpectedly humorous, collectively painting a vivid portrait of human connection and separation. The museum offers a deeply personal and introspective experience. Visitors often describe it as an emotional rollercoaster—equal parts cathartic and comforting. Its layout allows guests to move at their own pace, engaging with the displays in a way that feels private and meaningful. The ever-growing collection, continuously enriched by public contributions, fosters a sense of shared humanity and emotional affirmation. Global Impact and Cultural Reach Beyond its Zagreb home, the Museum of Broken Relationships has hosted travelling exhibitions worldwide—in Argentina, Germany, the United States, and more. These events not only display the existing collection but also invite local communities to contribute, ensuring a diverse and evolving range of stories. In June 2016, a second location opened in Hollywood, Los Angeles, featuring both Croatian and newly donated American items. Although the LA branch closed in November 2017, the museum’s global journey continued. Most recently, in November 2024, the museum expanded to Chiang Mai, Thailand, establishing its first permanent location in Southeast Asia—a testament to the universal resonance of its concept and its ongoing mission to explore the emotional depth of human relationships. Plan Your Visit: Museum Information Address: Ćirilometodska 2, Zagreb, CroatiaOpening Hours: Summer (June 1 – September 30): Daily, 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Winter (October 1 – May 31): Daily, 9:00 AM – 9:00 PMLast entry: 30 minutes before closing Entry Fee: Adults: HRK 40 (approx. ₹500) Children, seniors, people with disabilities: HRK 30 (approx. ₹380) How to Get There On Foot: Just a short walk from Ban Jelačić Square and the Gornji Grad funicular. By Bus: Nearby stops include Habdelićeva (3 mins) and Kaptol (9 mins). By Tram: Lines 11, 12, 13, 14, and 17 stop near Trg Josipa Jelačića (6 mins walk). Nearby Attractions St. Mark’s Church & Square: Known for its colourful tiled roof and historic significance. Croatian Parliament and Government buildings nearby. Klovićevi Dvori Gallery: A must-visit for art lovers, set in a former Jesuit monastery. Croatian Museum of Naïve Art: Showcasing vivid works by self-taught artists. Zagreb Cathedral: Croatia’s tallest building, with stunning neo-Gothic architecture. Dolac Market: A lively open-air market offering local produce and crafts. Archaeological Museum: Home to over 450,000 artifacts, including the world's longest Etruscan inscription. Travel Tips for Indian Visitors Croatia is now part of the Schengen Area (since January 1, 2023).Indian passport holders require a Schengen short-stay Type C visa, valid for 90 days within a 180-day period. How to Apply:Apply through VFS Global in India. Required documents include: Valid passport Travel insurance Proof of accommodation Return flight tickets Financial proof The Museum of Broken Relationships is more than a collection of discarded items—it’s a poignant tribute to love in all its forms, an emotional refuge, and a powerful reminder that we're never truly alone in our heartbreak.